Do you get enough sleep? What about exercise? If you're like most people, the answer is no. Yet you're probably dealing with issues such as work stress, financial challenges, relationship problems or family discord.

As we all know, when you're under stress it's critical to take care of yourself by eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and engaging in regular exercise. I've found it's also important to make time for relaxing and pleasurable activities.

On a recent long-distance flight, I used a headset to listen to music available on the plane. The channels ranged from rock to country to meditative music. The results were surprising. Rather than simply enduring my time on the plane, I enjoyed a real sense of peace and calm. This reinforces what others have found — that music helps relieve physical and emotional distress.

Look at a scenic picture book or even gaze at one scenic picture. For example, I have photographer's books with all photos of Colorado, Washington State, etc. Especially scenic places I've been - I reimagine being in those places.

kim

October 26, 2011 3:51 p.m.

I'm a stress person to begin with ''anxiety issues'' aut I must admit that my son who as OCD and Asperger takes a lot of energy's out of me...I'm a single father.
I cant concentrate on any relaxing thecniques

Michael

October 26, 2011 3:14 p.m.

For me, listening to music makes me feel more stressed. Certain voices, beats, and rhythms can make a person feel uneasy. Personally, I relax by getting lost in my thoughts, thinking about all the things in my life I am thankful for, and breathe deeply for about a minute.

Dolly

October 22, 2011 10:14 p.m.

I set aside 'me' time, and I call it that. I work full time, and its a big part of nearly every day. If I can't manage it myself, I enlist my family members to leave me alone for 30 minutes. I recline in a chair (or bed!), read an uplifting book, maybe close my eyes. I have found that this is very empowering to my day. Or if I need a pick me up, I play music on the piano or violin (sometimes, not so good. but who cares...) or I take a run/walk. me time. great concept. family gets it. most of the time.

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